The benefits of being in nature abound. When we get closer to it – be it untouched wilderness or a backyard tree – we do our brains and bodies a favor. This is true for all ages and walks of life; the outdoors offers one of the most reliable boosts to our mental and physical well-being. In fact, studies show that what you see, hear, and experience in your environment changes not only your mood, but how your nervous, endocrine, and immune systems work as well.
Benefits of Being in Nature
Encourages Physical Activity and Engagement
Accessibility to everyday green spaces encourages people to simply get out the door. This in turn motivates them to be active physically, spiritually, and socially, which can offset chronic illness, disability, and isolation. Spending time outdoors also fights boredom and raises self-esteem. Plus, being outside makes us feel more energetic and alive – a good enough reason to get out and get moving.
Reduces Stress
Stress reduction is one of the most well-known benefits of being in nature. Getting outdoors, or even viewing scenes of nature, reduces anger, fear, and stress and increases pleasant feelings. Consequently, it may also help reduce blood pressure, heart rate, muscle tension, and the production of stress hormones. Even viewing nature out of a window is associated with lower stress and reduced mortality.
Improves Short-Term and Working Memory
Believe it or not, being in nature can help improve your short-term and working memory. In fact, one study suggested that walking in nature could improve your short-term memory by 20 percent. Another similar study on individuals with depression found that walks in nature boosted working memory much more than walks in urban environments.
Reduces Inflammation
Inflammation is a natural process the body uses to respond to threats, like a stubbed toe or exposure to the flu. But when there’s too much inflammation in the body, it’s associated with other illnesses, like inflammatory bowel disease, depression, and cancer. Spending time in nature may be one way to help keep it in check. In one study, elderly patients who had been sent on a week-long trip into the forest showed reduced signs of inflammation as well as some indications that the woodsy walk had a positive effect on their hypertension.
Relieves Depression and Anxiety
Simply sitting in a green space or listening to the sound of falling water helps people feel more alive, and for seniors who struggle with depression or feelings of hopelessness, this is an immeasurable gift. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues may all be eased by some time in the great outdoors – especially when it’s combined with exercise.
Senior Living
Enjoy the many benefits of being in nature at The Shores of Lake Phalen, where our community sits in a quiet, peaceful environment. Surrounded by a gorgeous wooded setting between two lakes, our residence offers the community and accessibility of apartment-style housing with the atmosphere and elegance of a resort.
Thanks to our team of dedicated staff members, residents enjoy a care-free lifestyle, without the common worries of running a household. We offer numerous health and safety amenities, fun events and activities, a friendly and accommodating staff, and so much more. Schedule a tour of the community to explore our spacious apartments, elegant dining room, and more. We look forward to hearing from you!